Ireland's Basic Income for the Arts pilot produced positive economic return, program made permanent (good.is)

• 2,000 Irish artists received €325/week for three years in Basic Income for the Arts pilot.
• Alma Economics report: €1 invested returned €1.39 in social and economic benefits.
• Pilot cost €72 million, generated nearly €80 million; reduced welfare spending and increased artist work hours.
• Program made permanent in Budget 2026; plans to add 200 more artists.
• Minister Patrick O'Donovan announced the permanent scheme, citing the positive economic outcome.

"Ireland's three-year Basic Income for the Arts pilot, giving 2,000 artists €325 weekly, has been made permanent after an external report found it generated €1.39 for every €1 invested. The program cost €72 million but produced nearly €80 million in total benefits, including reduced social welfare spending and increased artist work hours. Minister Patrick O'Donovan announced the permanent scheme in Budget 2026, with plans to expand by 200 more artists."